If you’re looking for a romantic break away that really feels like an escape from the modern world, Bodysgallen Hall in Llandudno is the perfect Welsh retreat. This historic Grade I listed National Trust property combines 17th Century hotel with spa, gym, and an award winning restaurant all set among 200 acres of incredible countryside and immaculately manicured gardens. Panoramic views stretch as far as the peaks of Snowdonia, while nearby Conwy Castle is visible from some of the bedroom windows.
Location
Set on Pydew Mountain and just two miles from the pretty Victorian seaside town of Llandudno, Bodysgallen feels blissfully secluded while being easily accessible. Driving is probably the easiest route, although Llandudno Junctionstation is just 2 miles from the hotel with regular trains from London Euston and Cardiff. Liverpool Airport is around an hour away.
History
The story of Bodysgallen stretches back more than 600 years. With an original watch tower built in the 13th century to protect Conwy Castle, it evolved into a grand 17th-century manor house owned by the aristocratic Mostyn family. Restored and transformed into a luxury hotel in 1983, Bodysgallen is now one of three Historic House Hotels gifted to the National Trust in 2008, with every penny of profit donated to charity.
Rooms
There are 31 rooms in total – each one individually styled with traditional charm. Guests can choose from characterful bedrooms in the main house or cosy converted cottages dotted across the grounds. Some rooms come with postcard-worthy views of Snowdonia and Conwy Castle, while there are also dog friendly cottages, some of which benefit from views of the stunning parterre gardens. Our room benefitted from gorgeous views of the castle from our queen size bed, while the large bathroom included a range of complimentary Penhaligons’ Quercus range toiletries. A quaint sitting area was perfect for book-reading, and the traditional style dressing table was perfect for getting ready before dinner.
The Spa
Hidden away in the grounds, it’s quite a walk to get to the spa. If you have mobility issues, you might want to take the car where there’s ample parking just outside. Once indoor, the facilities include a 50ft swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gym, and jacuzzi. We enjoyed a relaxing swim and a soak in the hot tub before dinner. The changing rooms include showers, toiletries and hair-dryers should you be heading straight out afterwards.
There are also six treatment rooms where therapists use botanical-rich products for facials, massages, and body rituals. The spa’s Club Room and terrace offer serene views of Deganwy Castle, and if you manage to score for the good weather while you’re there like we did, there’s a private sun garden next to the pool which is ideal for lazy afternoons.
Food and Drink
The grand dining room is beautiful, adorned with gigantic paintings and incredible views out across the lawn, while this 3 AA Rosettes restaurant has been led by Head Chef Abdalla Ahmed El Shershaby since 2009. Championing local produce, Abdalla is fortunate to have produce from the kitchen garden available to him at Bodysgallen meaning that garlic, beetroot and nasturtium to name just a few come straight from the grounds.
Elegant plates are beautifully balanced, while the menu evolves with the seasons. We enjoyed hand picked crab and spiced monkfish served with a punchy wild garlic mayo, and game terrine of rabbit and venison complimented by fresh tomato relish from the garden. Pea risotto arrived al dente with the sweetness of pea and aged Parmesan earthiness, while the slow cooked lamb rump was rich and juicy with a herb gnocchi providing texture and a rich nutty flavour courtesy of the Madeira sauce.
Welsh Afternoon Tea
While staying at Bodysgallen, you should definitely indulge in traditional Welsh Afternoon Tea. Served in the oak-panelled hall, library, or out on the lawn in warmer months as were fortunate enough too enjoy, it features delicate finger sandwiches (think honey roast ham with sun-dried tomato relish and Caerphilly cheese with apple chutney), warm scones with clotted cream and jam, home-baked cakes and pastries, and of course, the classic Welsh Bara Brith fruit loaf.
Exploring the Area
Bodysgallen Hall makes an ideal base for exploring North Wales. Beyond the hotel’s rose gardens, incredible 17th century boxed hedge parterre with herbs and flower beds, and the croquet lawn, you’re within easy reach of Snowdonia National Park, Conwy Castle, and the seaside charm of Victorian Llandudno. Nearby National Trust highlights include Bodnant Garden, Penrhyn Castle, and Plas Newydd which are all perfect for day trips.
Whether you’re here for the history, the spa, or simply the views, Bodysgallen Hall delivers a mix of modern indulgence and historic charm. It’s the kind of place where you can wander the romantic rose gardens, sip Champagne on the lawn while indulging in Afternoon Tea the next, or ending the day watching the sunset over Snowdonia. To book your stay, visit the website. Rooms start from £250 for a Main Hall bedroom.